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An innovator of sorts, the late Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister made his impact in the nation’s music industry. He is credited with being the creator of Fuji music which is now very popular among Yoruba language speakers. In this interview with OLAOLU OLADIPO, his son, Samsideen Balogun, took us into his life and times. Excerpts:
Everybody knew your father as an accomplished musician who created the Fuji music genre; as a son what kind of father was the late Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Balogun popularly known as Ayinde Barrister?
I will say that he was a good father to us, his children. As a professional, he was a great musician who did very well to establish himself. He was a man loved by everyone that came in contact with him. I love his music as a fan and I loved him as a father.
Growing up, what were the things you saw about him that you will forever remember about him?
Well, fortunately, I grew up with him. He raised me as a son. I can say that having him as a father was a privilege. I’m sure they’re so many people who would’ve loved to have him as a father. He was a caring father who paid so much premium on education. He wanted all of us to acquire education which he believed was a sure way to quality life in future.
What kind of man was he to his wives?
He was loved by all of them. They all loved him so much even in death. I am sure that they all miss him.